Book Review: Some believe that Shirley Jackson wrote directly from her unconscious, so it may not be surprising that certain elements re-occur in her books. The Sundial has so many Shirley Jackson elements, that it's a game to identify bits from this one in her other books (past & future): the lost in the woods scene from Hangsaman, the mansion as character from Castle and Hill House, the dialog about a loving family from Castle, the backbiting community from The Road Through the Wall, etc. The Sundial has the usual elements, but the story doesn't quite hold together and it's not her best (tho it would be a triumph for many authors); I'd guess it's not anyone's favorite Shirley Jackson novel. Here Jackson shares her contempt for a broad swath of the human race and indicts people who dream that a better world will make them better people, rather than trying to be better people in this world. Jackson views the idea of living for eternity with these people as Hell. It's all explained by Fancy in the book: "Like I keep trying to tell you, it doesn't matter which world you're in." The Sundial is certainly well-written and filled with a sharp, snarky, biting, pointed, dry humor that never misses its mark. At some level, Jackson seems to have seen herself as the main character of Mrs. Halloran, without whom there is no hope whatsoever. If you like Shirley Jackson you need to read The Sundial and you'll enjoy it, if you don't, you won't. The characters aren't quite as compelling, the plot not as driven, the movement a little hazy, compared to her other books. I always enjoy Jackson, and I enjoyed The Sundial, but it's not one of her top three, and won't make any converts of non-believers. And now I'm feeling guilty for being too tough since I really did like it ... . [3.5 Stars]
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